Today Show Anchor, Mike Leonard, Retires After Three Decades On NBC Morning Show

Mike Leonard, a veteran news anchor at the NBC television network, announced his official retirement from broadcasting this past Thursday.

Leonard played an instrumental role as a part of the “Today Show” team for over three decades, covering stories about ordinary Americans doing extraordinary things.

Leonard announced his retirement on Thursday with a tribute to his wife, Cathy, who he said has inspired him "to see the beauty in our everyday existence. ”

"Your stories ... are a microcosm of you," said Matt Lauer after Leonard's final segment aired and the tears were wiped away. "They all have incredible heart, they're told with kindness, and hope, and modesty. They are understated and yet so powerful, and that is you in a nutshell."

"You have an amazing gift, an amazing talent," said Savannah Guthrie.

According to Today.com , one of Leonard's favorite stories is one about a Chicago mailman.

Leonard is also part of a family video production company called Picture Show Films. The company has produced critically acclaimed television shows, features for PBS, ESPN and other news outlets, and videos for fundraising, corporate training, and other projects. Picture Show Films is also credited with producing the Brendan Leonard Show, hosted by his son, Brendan Leonard.